Nine-seat flights to Puttaparthi, Nagarjuna Sagar soon

Guntur: Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation is ready to operate nine-seat flights from Vijayawada airport at Gannavaram to Nagarjunasagar and Puttaparthi as soon as the election code of conduct is lifted.

Operation of flights to Nagarjunasagar and Puttaparthi has been delayed due to the election code of conduct though operator is ready to operate flights.

The Supreme Airlines got all the necessary permissions from the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation to operate daily two trips to Nagarjunasagar and Puttaparthi for the convenience of the passengers.

Earlier, the Supreme Airlines had problem of pilots. This problem was later solved by engaging foreign pilots and got permission from the Centre to this effect.

As soon as the election code of conduct is lifted, the operator will open booking of tickets and start flight operations. Based on the demand, if necessary it will operate more trips.

Speaking to The Hans India, Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation Chief Executive Officer Virender Singh said, "There is no response to operate direct flights from Vijayawada to Dubai. Operators did not file bids to operate flights to Dubai. The government is not in a position to operate direct flights to Dubai immediately."

"The Supreme Airlines will operate nine-seat flights to Puttaparthi and Nagarjunasagar as soon as the election code of conduct is lifted. The airlines got all the necessary permissions to operate mini flights. We are waiting for lifting of election code of conduct. Once Puttaparthi and Nagarjuanasagar get air connectivity it would be convenient for passengers," he added.

AP Tourism Development Corporation Executive Director R Mallikarjuna Rao said, "If mini flights are operated to Nagarjunasagar, the tourism will develop at Nagarjunasagar, Nagarjuna Konda. It will ensure comfortable travel for Buddhists who visit Nagarjunakonda."